LeBron James Drops 23 in Return from COVID-19 Protocols as Lakers Fall to Clippers

AP Photo/Ashley Landis

The latest battle for Los Angeles went in the Clippers’ favor as they defeated the Lakers 119-115 on Friday at Staples Center.

Clippers forward Paul George had a near triple-double with 19 points, nine assists and eight rebounds. Luke Kennard also had 19 points and hit back-to-back three-pointers late in the fourth to give the Clips a 116-111 lead.

Lakers forward LeBron James, who made his return to the court after missing one game upon entering the health-and-safety protocols, responded with a layup to make this a one-possession game.

Marcus Morris Sr. then nailed a bank-shot three-pointer with seven seconds left to give the Clippers a 119-113 lead and effectively seal the game. He led six Clippers players in double digits with 21 points.

The Clippers improved to 12-11 to snap a three-game losing skid. The 12-12 Lakers’ two-game win streak ended with the defeat.

Notable Performances

Clippers F Paul George: 19 points, 9 assists, 8 rebounds

Clippers F Luke Kennard: 19 points

Clippers F Marcus Morris Sr.: 21 points

Lakers F LeBron James: 23 points, 11 rebounds, 6 assists

Lakers F/C Anthony Davis: 27 points, 10 rebounds

Lakers G Malik Monk: 20 points

What’s Next?

The Lakers will stay home to host the Boston Celtics on Tuesday at 10 p.m. ET. The Clippers will travel north to face the Kings at Golden 1 Center on Saturday at 10 p.m.

This article will be updated to provide more information on this story as it becomes available.

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